Keldon Johnson reflects on Spurs' journey to first Playoffs since 2017

The longest-tenured Spurs player is grateful for the team's support staff after clinching a postseason berth.

Mar. 20, 2026 at 8:36am

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Keldon Johnson, the longest-tenured player on the San Antonio Spurs, has finally reached his first NBA Playoffs with the team this season. After struggling through a seven-year drought, the Spurs have returned to the postseason, and Johnson is appreciative of the collective effort from the entire organization that helped them get back to this point.

Why it matters

The Spurs were once a perennial playoff contender under Gregg Popovich, but they fell on hard times in recent years. Johnson's journey with the team through those struggles has given him a unique perspective on the organization's return to the Playoffs, and his acknowledgment of the support staff's contributions highlights the teamwork required to rebuild a winning culture.

The details

Johnson has been with the Spurs since 2019 and has been a consistent contributor, transitioning from a starting role to embracing his current position as the team's sixth man. Despite the Spurs' difficulties in recent seasons, Johnson remained loyal to the organization and is now being rewarded with his first career Playoff appearance.

  • The Spurs clinched their Playoff berth in the 2025-26 NBA season.
  • Johnson has been with the Spurs since the 2019-20 season.

The players

Keldon Johnson

The longest-tenured player on the San Antonio Spurs, who has been with the team since 2019 and is now reaching his first NBA Playoffs.

Gregg Popovich

The former head coach of the San Antonio Spurs, who led the team to 20 consecutive Playoff appearances before their recent drought.

Tim Duncan

A legendary player who was a key part of the Spurs' success during Popovich's tenure as head coach.

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What they’re saying

“When we were at 22 wins, now that we are at 51 wins, I think those people each and every day give us 100%. I feel like you guys, or to the media and people outside, they are the engines. We go out, we perform, we play together, we have fun and win, but without our medical staff, video team, they get us ready for every game.”

— Keldon Johnson, Spurs Player

What’s next

The Spurs will look to make a deep run in the Playoffs after clinching their first postseason berth since 2017.

The takeaway

Keldon Johnson's journey with the Spurs through their recent struggles has given him a deep appreciation for the entire organization's contributions in helping the team return to the Playoffs. His acknowledgment of the support staff's efforts highlights the teamwork required to rebuild a winning culture in the NBA.